Head Study for "The Entombment of Christ" 1864

This is a study in graphite on paper, made by Henri Regnault in preparation for his painting "The Entombment of Christ". Here, Regnault relies on traditional methods of sketching, with the material qualities of graphite allowing for a range of tonal values and details. Look at the texture of the paper, and how the graphite catches on its surface. The varying pressure applied in the strokes creates a sense of depth and volume, particularly in the hair and beard. Notice the artist's close attention to the fall of light on the face, achieved through careful shading. The labor-intensive process of producing such a detailed study reflects the academic training of artists in the 19th century. It also reminds us of the amount of work involved in creating even a single element of a larger composition. This underscores the artistic skill and intellectual labor often overlooked when considering finished artworks. By focusing on the materiality and making of this drawing, we can appreciate its complexity and challenge the traditional hierarchy between sketch and finished painting.